Ideas
The Space Force needs a brand-new culture of its own
It doesn’t do organized violence—and shouldn’t pretend that it does.
Ideas
China is honing runway-repair teams
In a Pacific conflict, sustained air operations will turn on the ability to keep airfields open.
Science & Tech
Shield AI drones demonstrate autonomous teaming under USAF contract
The company says it will operationalize its AI pilot software on V-BAT drones in 2024.
Threats
Air Force expanding number of bases in Pacific over next decade
But the exact number depends on how much money the service gets in the future.
Threats
Russian jets playing chicken with US planes over Syria, officials say
Air Forces Central Command reports head-on passes; denies Russian state-run media reports U.S. is doing it, too.
Threats
More tankers, E-7s, and better comms: lessons from Air Force’s Red Flag
The exercise featured U.S. Navy Carrier Strike Group Carl Vinson.
Science & Tech
Plasma breakthrough could enable better hypersonic weapons, spacecraft
Hot electronics are a big problem for next-generation missiles. The fourth state of matter could be the solution.
Science & Tech
Air Force selects JetZero for blended-wing body prototype plane
The company says the airplane will have its first flight in 2027.
Ideas
Air Force deal sets a precedent others should follow
By obtaining the data rights for two helicopters, the service sets itself up to save money and improve readiness.
Policy
What military sexual-assault victims think of the new way cases are prosecuted
President Biden signed an executive order last month that removes legal decision-making authority from commanders for most serious crimes.
Business
Potential competition for F-35 cooling system heats up between Honeywell and Raytheon
Company officials spar over access to engine information.
Policy
USAF wants its future robot wingmen to fly with sister services as well
And it wants them far more quickly than the typical acquisition program
Policy
Air Force wants to rely less on Northrop for B-21 sustainment
Stealth-bomber plans are part of a general effort to reduce costs by managing maintenance and upgrades.
Business
How Lockheed is positioning the F-22 to fly into the 2040s
The Pentagon is spending billions to keep the Raptor ready for battle.
Science & Tech
Air Force: One engine design will fit into both bidders’ next-gen fighters
Two companies are vying to build the service’s secretive NGAD jets.
Policy